ECJ rules that the shape of a Rubik Cube is not a valid trademark

Everyone agrees that three dimensionsal trademarks are possible. A classic example might be Rolls Royce’s mascot. Where a mark has functionality, it becomes more difficult. Unique packaging, such as the shape of a truly unique bottle, is trademarkable.

Rubik’s Cube, which was invented in 1974 by Hungarian architecture professor Erno Rubik, has enduring popularity and has sold more than 400 million cubes worldwide. Seven Towns registered the Rubik’s Cube as a three-dimensional EU trademark with the EUIPO in 1999. Simba Toys challenged the registration, but in 2014 the European Union General Court decided the three-dimensional trademark was valid, and ordered Simba to pay costs.

ISRAEL’S LEADING IP BLOG

PCTea-Bags

Patents in general and PCT applications in particular are often filed at the last minute causing stress. The need to meet tight deadlines threatens quality.

IP Factor has built our reputation by meeting deadlines with high quality applications at fair prices.

We now share our secret with the profession: PCTeabags – a carefully blended mixture of plant extracts that, when infused, relaxes the IP practitioner, taling the stress out of protecting intellectual property assets.

Also good for treating stress symptoms caused by patent drafting, design and trademark registration and enforcement.